Congresswoman Terri Sewell has a new title: vice chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus.

The caucus will promote and preserve the interests of HBCU by implementing national discussions and educating Congress and its staff about issues facing HBCUs.

It will also start bipartisan legislation to reach the needs of the colleges. Career opportunities will also be increased for students and graduates of HBCUs.

Sewell said HBCUs were foundations for African Americans who otherwise would have been turned down for an education because of segregation.

“HBCUs still play a vital role in educating our youth, and the primary purpose of the Bipartisan Congressional HBCU caucus is to help these storied institutions continue to flourish,” she said. “My district is home to some of the most prominent HBCUs in the country.”

She said she is glad to join the Bipartisan Congressional HBCU Caucus as vice chair. Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12) chairs the Bipartisan Congressional HBCU Caucus. Sewell joined Congressman Bennie Thompson (MS-2) as the vice chairs of the caucus.